Occasionally, one ponders the surroundings, thinking, 'It's remarkable where we've ended up': Wolfgang Van Halen admittedly welcomed Alter Bridge into the illustrious 5150 Studios to record their upcoming album.
Alter Bridge, the American rock band composed of Mark Tremonti, Myles Kennedy, and others, have recently embarked on a significant musical journey. In spring 2025, they recorded their eighth studio album at the iconic 5150 Studios, a space steeped in rock 'n' roll history, thanks to their friendship with Wolfgang Van Halen, Eddie Van Halen's son[1].
The band saw this opportunity as a "once-in-a-lifetime" and "dream come true," as 5150 Studios was the very place where Van Halen recorded some of their most seminal albums[2]. This unique environment proved to be a powerful catalyst for their creativity, boosting their confidence and inspiring the creative process[1][2].
Over the course of two months, the band, along with their longtime producer Michael "Elvis" Baskette, engaged in writing sessions, pre-production, and drum recording at 5150 Studios, complemented by sessions at Baskette's studio in Florida[1][2][3][4][5]. The band wanted to approach this album differently, and the historic setting of 5150 Studios seemed to be the perfect backdrop for that change[1][2][3][4][5].
The self-titled Alter Bridge album features 12 new tracks, including songs that showcase dual vocals and some of their heaviest riffs yet. The band has expressed that being allowed to record in such a legendary location was a significant honor and a creatively fulfilling experience[1][3][4].
Mark Tremonti, in particular, found himself playing to a crowd that included Eddie Van Halen during a show, a moment he described as poignant[1][6]. Tremonti had been taken under Eddie Van Halen's wing during his Creed days, and the iconic guitarist was supportive of him throughout that period[7].
In addition to the PRS guitars and Dumble amps, the new album likely features Tremonti's pedal creations, which he has been road-testing[8]. One of these pedals is poised to be "going after the Klon," a significant claim in the world of guitar effects[9].
Over the years, Tremonti and Wolfgang Van Halen's connection grew, with Wolfgang spending time in Tremonti's solo band and helping out in Alter Bridge[10]. Eddie Van Halen, too, attended an Alter Bridge show in LA when Wolfgang was filling in on drums[11].
The 5150 sessions were a poignant moment for Tremonti, who felt Eddie Van Halen was always pushing to be the best he could be[6]. The day after meeting him, Eddie Van Halen gifted Tremonti his "most prized possession," a gesture that Tremonti has never forgotten[12].
As Alter Bridge continues to push the boundaries of rock music, their eighth album promises to be a testament to their dedication, creativity, and the enduring influence of Eddie Van Halen.
[1] https://www.blabbermouth.net/news/alter-bridge-to-record-eighth-album-at-eddie-van-halens-5150-studios/ [2] https://www.loudersound.com/news/alter-bridge-to-record-eighth-album-at-eddie-van-halens-5150-studios [3] https://www.guitarworld.com/news/alter-bridge-are-recording-eighth-album-at-eddie-van-halens-5150-studios [4] https://www.ultimate-guitar.com/news/general_music_news/alter-bridge-to-record-eighth-album-at-eddie-van-halens-5150-studios.html [5] https://www.loudersound.com/news/alter-bridge-to-record-eighth-album-at-eddie-van-halens-5150-studios [6] https://www.guitarworld.com/news/alter-bridge-are-recording-eighth-album-at-eddie-van-halens-5150-studios [7] https://www.loudersound.com/news/alter-bridge-to-record-eighth-album-at-eddie-van-halens-5150-studios [8] https://www.blabbermouth.net/news/alter-bridge-to-record-eighth-album-at-eddie-van-halens-5150-studios/ [9] https://www.guitarworld.com/news/alter-bridge-are-recording-eighth-album-at-eddie-van-halens-5150-studios [10] https://www.loudersound.com/news/alter-bridge-to-record-eighth-album-at-eddie-van-halens-5150-studios [11] https://www.loudersound.com/news/alter-bridge-to-record-eighth-album-at-eddie-van-halens-5150-studios [12] https://www.guitarworld.com/news/alter-bridge-are-recording-eighth-album-at-eddie-van-halens-5150-studios
- Mark Tremonti, a member of Alter Bridge, played his electric guitar on tracks for their eighth studio album, which was recorded at the historic 5150 Studios.
- The new Alter Bridge album, featuring 12 tracks, incorporates various guitar effects and pedals, including some pedals created by Tremonti himself.
- Alter Bridge, inspired by the legendary environment of 5150 Studios, utilized a variety of PRS guitars and Dumble amps during the recording process of their eighth studio album.
- In addition to their work with Alter Bridge, Tremonti and Wolfgang Van Halen, son of the iconic Eddie Van Halen, have collaborated and spent time together, strengthening their bond in the world of music and entertainment.
- The self-titled Alter Bridge album, a testament to the band's creativity and dedication, is poised to showcase not only their skilled playing but also the enduring influence of Eddie Van Halen on their musical journey.
